Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has emphasized to Macedonian officials that North Macedonia’s progress toward EU membership hinges on constitutional amendments.
Following a meeting with Macedonian Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski in Skopje, von der Leyen conveyed the message that “you are on the right path to join the EU, and the EU is eagerly waiting to see you among its members”.
Von der Leyen stressed that constitutional changes are a vital step in the EU accession process. She commended North Macedonia for its achievements, expressing her hope that the country will continue its resolute journey toward EU membership.
Von der Leyen asserted, “The window of opportunity is open, so I hope all parties will seize the moment to progress by approving challenging decisions that will benefit your country”.
Constitutional amendments involve the inclusion of the Bulgarian minority in the Constitution’s preamble as a state-forming group, as outlined in the “French proposal” to resolve disputes with Bulgaria.
These changes require a two-thirds majority in the Assembly, but the parliamentary majority lacks the necessary votes, necessitating the opposition’s support. The opposition has opposed these changes, arguing they are detrimental to North Macedonia’s national and state interests.
Von der Leyen’s decision to exclude Hristijan Mickoski, leader of the opposition VMRO DPMNE, from her agenda is based on her planned visits to multiple Western Balkan countries. In these visits, she will meet only with presidents and prime ministers.
Macedonian Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski expressed his belief that parties historically opposed to integration will now prioritize the state’s interests and the European future of its citizens.
“We have an opportunity to provide a European future for the state by adopting the necessary decisions in the Assembly. I hope that those who have historically opposed European integration will demonstrate support for the European future of our country for the first time in their political actions,” Kovačevski stated.
He expressed hope that, after 17 years of waiting, North Macedonia will commence EU negotiations and achieve membership by 2030.
During her meeting with Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski, President Ursula von der Leyen also introduced the Western Balkans Investment Framework.
The investment package, earmarked by the EU to advance the region, amounts to 6 billion euros, including 2.1 billion euros in grants and 4 billion euros in loans. However, financial support for the region will be contingent on the degree of reforms implemented by each country.
“The development plan will stimulate your economy, create new jobs, and, crucially, support your path to EU membership. I believe this is a genuine offer at the right time. The plan has the potential to drive your economy for a decade and play a significant role in your integration journey,” von der Leyen emphasized.
For North Macedonia, she highlighted the necessity of extensive reforms in the judiciary, combating organized crime and corruption, public administration reforms, and other areas.
Macedonian Prime Minister Dimitar Kovačevski stated that the institutions will do everything to meet the criteria because the plan, according to him, “provides a boost for economic development, opens the European market for Macedonian products, reduces transportation costs, lowers customs duties, creates new opportunities in the energy sector, and enhances qualifications in various fields”.
After Skopje, Ursula von der Leyen will also visit Pristina, Podgorica, Belgrade, and Sarajevo.
